Taiwan's history is marked by periods of colonialism, conflict, and transformation into a democratic society. Initially inhabited by Indigenous peoples, Taiwan came under Dutch and Spanish colonial rule in the 17th century. In 1895, following the First Sino-Japanese War, Taiwan was ceded to Japan, which imposed significant economic and infrastructural changes, along with a harsh assimilation policy. After Japan's defeat in World War II, Taiwan was placed under Chinese Nationalist control. The su